The Montreal Canadiens and Tampa Bay Lightning are set for a winner-take-all Game 7 showdown on Sunday at 6 p.m. ET, and if this series has taught us anything, it's that every shift will matter.

Both teams enter the decisive game with identical 3-3 records, but it's the Lightning who carry momentum after a dramatic 1-0 overtime victory in Game 6. That win marked the fifth time in six games that these two squads have needed extra time to settle the score—a testament to just how tight and defensive this series has become.

For the Canadiens, the biggest storyline heading into Game 7 is the lack of production from their top line. Nick Suzuki, Cole Caufield, and Juraj Slafkovsky have yet to score a single goal at 5-on-5 against Tampa Bay. If Montreal wants to advance, their star forwards need to find the back of the net when it matters most.

Fortunately for head coach Martin St-Louis, the depth players have stepped up in a big way. Alex Texier, Kirby Dach, and Alex Newhook have provided crucial secondary scoring, while veteran Brendan Gallagher has been a force on the ice despite limited minutes. Gallagher's line has controlled over 70 percent of the shots when he's on the ice—by far the best mark on the team.

"Wouldn't be an easy game to watch," Gallagher said. "I'm made for Game 7 and excited to play."

Another key factor is the availability of veteran defenseman Noah Dobson. His presence would be a massive boost for a Canadiens team that struggled to contain Tampa Bay's rush attack in Game 6, where the Lightning held a staggering 22-7 advantage in high-danger scoring chances. With Dobson in the lineup, rookie goaltender Jakub Dobes would likely face fewer odd-man rushes.

As of Sunday morning, Dobson is considered a game-time decision. St-Louis expressed confidence that if Dobson can play, he'll give the Canadiens exactly what they need.

With lines like Gage Goncalves, Dominic James, and Oliver Bjorkstrand ready to contribute, Montreal will need every ounce of grit and skill to silence the Lightning and move on. Game 7 hockey doesn't get much better than this.